Elderly Care and Depression

Depression, which is characterised as mental illness, is often overlooked by elders as they think more about physical problems than emotional issues. It is often observed that depression is an outcome of anxiety caused by physical illness. Depression makes individual see things in a negative light. Despair and pessimism are often the root cause of depression. Depressed person tends to blame himself/herself for things that they are not responsible for.

Depression can occur at any point of time. It is usually triggered by events such as death of a loved one, accident, or family issues like financial crisis and worry over the future of children, or anxiety over the possibility of physical ailments. Recurring memories of painful events of the past can also lead to depression. There are various other physical ailments that can also trigger depression. It is observed that almost all kinds of physical health issues can trigger depression in elder adults. Certain kinds of medications can cause depression.

Just like other disease, depression too is treatable. Older adults usually tend to ignore depression thinking it to be a part of aging and other related physical illnesses. The intensity depression is different in every elder. Families too often overlook the symptoms of depression suffered by the elders in their home. Often the symptoms of depression are mistaken to be that of Alzheimer's, Dementia, Arthritis, Cancer, Parkinson's, stroke, or thyroid disorders.

Elders who experience depression also mistake it to be a flaw with their behaviour. Treatment also gets delayed due to the notion of elderly care being expensive. However, there are several studies that prove the effectiveness of various methods that help in countering depression. Today, there are number of ways for aged care support for people diagnosed with depression.

Most preferred modes of treatment for depression include psychotherapy (counselling), electroconvulsive therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and medicines - anti depressant.

Below are some quick and simple tips to counter depression:

• It is difficult to share with family members about the issues you undergo. However, opening up and talking about issues you face can lower the propensity depression.
• Stay active. Rigorous physical exercises may not be possible to do at old age, but engaging in daily conversations, social activities, brisk walks can help.
• Do what you love doing i.e. keep up with your hobbies and interests.
• Eat properly, as this can prevent weight loss. Avoid chocolates and biscuits.
• Avoid over thinking, Depression is not a sign of weakness.
• Share your feelings with others
• Avoid alcohol

Kadji The Care is unique care home located in Vadodara, Gujarat, India. Depression is a mental illness that needs to be handled with care and under the guidance of experts, Kadji's care home in Gujarat, houses experts from various branches of medicine and health care. For more information visit http://www.kadji.co.in/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nikunj_Chawda

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7738788